The Rising Incidence of Liver Cancer in Tennessee
The prevalence of liver cancer in Tennessee is a concerning trend. Risk factors, such as obesity (39.1% of our population), diabetes (13.1%) and inactivity (26.5%) are leading to high rates of liver disease deaths. Counties like Shelby and Davidson have a higher incidence of liver cancer, which is linked to the aforementioned risk factors and possibly higher rates of Hepatitis C, which contributes significantly to liver cancer risk.1
According to the National Cancer Institute, cases per 100,000 residents more than doubled—from less than 4 to more than 8—during the last 20 years. This is not a natural phenomenon; liver cancer is heavily linked to lifestyle, which means that you can reduce your personal risk of getting liver cancer.
Cancer within the liver can be primary (originates in the liver) or secondary (metastasizes from cancer in other parts of the body). The two most common types of liver cancer are hepatocellular carcinoma (73% of cases) in which a tumor grows within the liver and cholangiocarcinoma (18%) which develops from cells within the bile duct of the liver.
Like most cancers, the earlier liver cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available and the greater chance of their success. The most common symptoms of liver cancer are unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, an enlarged liver or spleen (which may be felt as fullness under the ribs on the right or left side), swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), enlarged veins on the belly, abnormal bruising, bleeding or itching.
You can lower your risk of liver cancer by living a healthier lifestyle which includes maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, and limiting alcohol consumption. Drinking coffee can also help reduce liver cancer risk. Another way to reduce risk is to prevent Hepatitis B and C infection, which can be achieved through vaccination, practicing safe sex, avoiding shared needles and ensuring only sterile needles are used for piercings or tattoos.
Learn more about Memphis Vascular Center treatments for liver cancer in Tennessee »
- Source: ThinkLiverThinkLife.org
